Best Glide

2018 11 01 faa best glide speed and distance

2018 11 02 faa best glide speed and distance

RESOURCES

FAA Airplane Flying Handbook - Approaches and Landings (Chap 8): http://go.usa.gov/cKaUJFAA

FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam) WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program: www.FAASafety.gov/wings

 

2022 11 gajsc logo header

General Aviation Joint Steering Committee

Best Glide Speed and Distance

Outreach Guidance Document

2022/03-17-249(I)PP

 

This outreach guidance is provided to all FAA and aviation industry groups that are participating in outreach efforts sponsored by the General Aviation Joint Steering Committee (GAJSC).  It is important that all outreach on a given topic is coordinated and is free of conflicts.  Therefore, all outreach products should be in alignment with the outline and concepts listed below for this topic.

 

Outreach Month:  April 2023

 

Topic:  Best Glide Speed

The FAA and industry will conduct a public education campaign emphasizing the best practices associated with obtaining and maintaining Best Glide Speed while maneuvering during emergency descents, approaches, and landings.

 

Background

The General Aviation Joint Steering Committee (GAJSC) has studied a number of General Aviation accidents. Recently the Committee studied system and component failure accidents and they determined that a significant number of fatal accidents result from unsuccessful forced landing attempts. The Committee feels that improved  pilot knowledge of and proficiency in flying at best glide speed and configuration will increase the chances of a successful forced landing.

 

Teaching Points:

  • General aviation accidents have resulted from loss of control while maneuvering during emergency descents, approaches, and landings.
  • The likelihood of executing successful forced landings can be improved through obtaining and maintaining Best Glide Speed or Minimum Sink Speed.
  • Pilots should determine Best Glide and Minimum Sink Speeds for the aircraft they fly.
  • Pilots should periodically train and practice to achieve and maintain proficiency in forced landings.

 

References:

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